Zoe Williams writes about the captivating nature of gardeners' conversations, which often sound like they're up to no good. She recalls her uncle's history of plant smuggling, including a ginkgo tree confiscated by customs and seven varieties of seed potato smuggled from Germany in children's pockets.
Gardeners' Coded Language
Williams notes that when gardeners discuss rare plants, their language shifts into what seems like code. For example, one might say, 'I've seen a Royal Oak smelly pelly in Denmark,' and another replies, 'Have you ever known one to travel?' This exchange resembles art thieves planning a heist, leaving listeners unsure if it's nostalgia for past contraband or a real geranium robbery in the making.
Appreciation for Mischief
Despite the apparent rule-breaking, Williams admits she enjoys the sound of mischief, even as she deplores horticultural rule-breaking. She attributes her fascination to her uncle's contempt for regulations, which made gardening conversations thrilling.
